In South Africa, the dishes are influenced by the indigenous population as well as the French, Dutch, Malaysians, and Indians. As such, it provides you with a vibrant cuisine that is sure to excite the taste buds.
If you ever set foot in South Africa, here are 10 foods you should not leave without trying.
1. Bobotie
This dish is thought to have been brought by Asian settlers. Bobotie is the national dish of South Africa and is cooked in many homes and restaurants. Minced meat is simmered with spices, then topped with a mixture of egg and milk and baked until set.
2. Chakalaka
Chakalaka is super easy to prepare and has grown beyond South Africa’s cities. It is made with baked beans, curry, peppers, and carrots. It is almost impossible to find Braai (South African barbecue) without chakalaka.
3. Cape Malay curry
Centuries ago, the Dutch and French brought their spices and traditional cooking methods. When combined with local foods, the aromatic spices created fragrant curries and stews, which are still prevalent in South Africa today.
4. Potjiekos
Potjiekos has its roots in an Afrikaaner tradition. It supposedly emerged out of the need to cook while on the move. It is cooked in a small pot, and ingredients include meat, vegetables, and starch (usually potatoes).
5. Malva pudding
Malva pudding is a sweet, sticky pudding made with apricot jam and served in a hot cream sauce. It is mainly baked at home for Sunday lunch.
6. Durban Chicken Curry
The Durban chicken curry recipe is quick and easy. You end up with a comforting curry that goes well with basmati rice and a sambal on the side.
7. Braai/Shisa nyama
The South African barbecue. Shisa nyama means ‘burn the meat’ in Zulu. Braais originated in the locales of Johannesburg. Butchers usually set up barbecues in front of their shops at weekends to sell on the street. This is not to be missed whenever you are in South Africa. Take your pick from the meat on offer, and enjoy life.
8. Apricot blatjang
Apricot blatjang is a South African chutney made with dried apricots. It is the perfect combination with cheese or even bobotie.
9. Biltong & droewors
Usually made from beef, biltong is a thinly sliced, air-dried meat, while droewors are air-dried sausages. Both are eaten as snacks. It has high protein and low-fat content.
10. Boerewors
The number 10 on delicious South African foods you should try is Boerewors. Boerewors are sausages presented in an often spiral and circular shape. It is made using mostly meat, pork, or game meat. This is a must-have when taking braai.
Which of these South African foods is exciting your taste buds already?
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